Irvine Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Bicycle Accident Attorney in Irvine, CA

Irvine offers picturesque scenes for bike lovers. However, as the number of bicycles sharing the streets with motor vehicles continues to grow, so does the risk of bicycle accidents. These unfortunate incidents can lead to life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for victims and their families.

If a motorist has injured you while biking, having an experienced bicycle accident attorney by your side can help you navigate the intricacies of the law. Contact an Irvine bicycle accident lawyer to increase your chances of getting fair compensation for your damages as you focus on your recovery and well-being after the accident.

Possible Causes of Irvine Bicycle Accidents

Determining the cause of an accident is an integral part of establishing liability and getting compensation. Some common causes of bicycle accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Motorists using smartphones, adjusting GPS systems, or engaging in other distractions may not notice cyclists on the road, resulting in collisions.
• Failure to Yield: Some motorists fail to yield the right-of-way to cyclists at intersections or while making turns, leading to accidents.
• Dooring Accidents: “Dooring” occurs when a cyclist is hit by a car door that suddenly opens in their path. This type of accident is common in areas with parallel parking.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive recklessly endanger cyclists sharing the road, leading to potential collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions: Uneven pavements, potholes, and debris on the road or bike trails can cause cyclists to lose control and crash.
• Driving Under the Influence: Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs pose a significant risk to cyclists and other road users.

California is constantly making changes that promote road safety awareness and better cycling infrastructure to ensure that cyclists and motorists adhere to traffic rules and respect each other’s presence on the road.

Preventing Bicycle Accidents in Irvine, CA

While accidents can happen, proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of bicycle accidents in Irvine. Here are some essential tips for both cyclists and motorists to promote road safety:

For Cyclists

Some important safety measures for cyclists to take include to:

• Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear a well-fitted helmet and bright-colored clothing to enhance visibility.
• Use Bike Lanes and Paths: Use designated bike lanes or paths to separate yourself from motor vehicle traffic.
• Obey Traffic Laws: Follow all traffic rules, including stop signs and signals. Use hand signals to indicate turns.
• Stay Visible: Equip your bicycle with front and rear lights, reflectors, and reflective clothing to increase visibility, especially during low-light conditions.
• Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay vigilant and constantly scan the road for potential hazards, such as opening car doors or approaching vehicles.

For Motorists

For motorists, it’s important to:

• Give Space: Maintain a safe distance from cyclists, providing at least three feet of clearance when passing.
• Check Blind Spots: Always check mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes to ensure no cyclists are nearby.
• Yield Right-of-Way: Respect cyclists’ right-of-way at intersections and yield when appropriate.
• Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road, avoid using mobile devices, and refrain from any other distractions that could compromise attention.
• Drive at Safe Speeds: Adhere to speed limits and drive at a safe speed, especially in areas where cyclists are present.
• Look Before Opening Car Doors: Check for approaching cyclists to avoid “dooring” accidents before opening your car door.

When cyclists and drivers adhere to these simple rules, many bicycle accidents can be avoided in California.

What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Irvine

It is normal to be disoriented and scared following an accident. If you find yourself in a bicycle accident in Irvine, you can follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your claim:

• Call for medical help and get a thorough evaluation, even if your injuries appear minor. Some injuries may worsen with time, while others are not easily detectable.
• Obtain the driver’s contact and insurance information, as well as contact details of any witnesses present at the scene.
• If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, damaged vehicles, and your injuries.
• Contact the local police to report the accident and obtain an official accident report.
• Avoid discussing the incident with anyone other than the police or your attorney. Even a simple apology might be misconstrued as admitting fault.

Importantly, avoid dealing with the insurance company directly and instead enlist an Irvine bicycle accident lawyer to negotiate on your behalf.

Common Injuries Sustained in Irvine Bicycle Accidents

Unlike motorists, who are surrounded by protective metal frames and other safety features, cyclists have limited protection in case of a collision. When a bicycle collides with a car or other vehicle, the impact force is absorbed primarily by the cyclist’s body, leading to a higher risk of severe injuries. These injuries may include:

• Head trauma
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fractures and broken bones
• Soft tissue injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Road rash

These injuries may require long-term or expensive treatments. Getting the compensation you deserve can help mitigate these medical expenses.

Speak to an Experienced Irvine Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, leading to physical, emotional, and financial hardships. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Irvine due to the negligence of others, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. By seeking the assistance of an experienced bicycle accident attorney, you can significantly improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve for injuries and damages.

Contact the experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Setareh Law at (310) 659-1826 or through our online form for a free consultation. Our team also speaks Spanish.

Setareh Law, APLC